On a cold, crisp October evening in Hull, England, two formidable athletes draped in the radiant colours of Zimbabwe’s national flag stood triumphantly at the ICO World Martial Arts Championships.
Wilfred Mashaya and Vincent Fambira earned 11 medals at the ICO World Martial Arts Championships, making history.
The International Combat Organization (ICO) organised the championships, spearheaded by Andrew Hennessy. The event featured various martial arts disciplines, and Zimbabwe’s champions participated exclusively in the weaponry categories. They showcased their mastery of traditional Japanese weapons such as Tonfa, Sai, Bo, Kama, Katana, and Nunchaku.
The Zimbabwe Kobudo Team, under the auspices of the Zimbabwe Karate Union (ZKU), proved their mastery in weapon-based martial arts by winning 8 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal in a highly competitive international tournament.
Fambira, an upcoming star mentored by the veteran Mashaya, had a memorable international debut. He matched his mentor’s tally by winning three individual gold medals in the 17-plus years categories of traditional, freestyle, and creative weapons and a silver medal.
Mashaya has already achieved international glory by conquering Russia in 2016 and has added three more individual gold medals to his illustrious career. His exceptional skills in Black Belt Traditional, Freestyle, and Extreme Weapons have left both audiences and competitors spellbound.
Despite financial constraints, this team consistently represents Zimbabwe with pride. In the era of virtual competitions, they won over 200 medals, a testament to their unyielding spirit. This success builds upon their legacy.
Mashaya and Fambira overcame economic hardships and limited sponsorship to represent Zimbabwe as martial artists in England. Their unparalleled skill and grace turned obstacles into stepping stones towards global recognition.
The duo from Zimbabwe excelled in team categories and secured the titles of Traditional and Creative Weapons Team World Champions.
Zimbabwe’s victory is a monumental leap for African martial arts. They are the first African Kobudo team to win the world title, setting a significant precedent.
Master Mashaya is a well-known figure who is associated with success. He represents the team’s values of hard work, focus, humility, and discipline. Fambira’s impressive performance is proof of Mashaya’s ability to both compete and nurture the next generation of champions.
Medal Tally:
Vincent Fambira: 3 Gold, 1 Silver
Wilfred Mashaya: 3 Gold, 1 Silver
Team (Mashaya & Fambira): 2 Gold, 1 Bronze
Total Medals: 8 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
